Halloween is one of the most beloved holidays for movie lovers. Whether you’re into classic scares, family-friendly fun, or modern horror masterpieces, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during spooky season. To help you plan your next movie marathon, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best Halloween movies of all time. This list includes critical darlings, box office hits, and fan favorites that capture the essence of Halloween.
Best Halloween Movies:
1. Terrifier (2016)
3. The Exorcist (1973)
Often regarded as one of the scariest movies ever made, The Exorcist is a chilling tale of demonic possession. The film’s terrifying performances and intense atmosphere have cemented its place as one of the best Halloween movies for those seeking pure terror.
4. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece is both a Halloween and Christmas movie, making it a perfect pick for the holiday season. Jack Skellington’s journey to bring Christmas to Halloween Town is visually stunning and filled with memorable songs that resonate with viewers of all ages.
5. Beetlejuice (1988)
Another Tim Burton classic, Beetlejuice is a quirky and darkly comedic take on the afterlife. Michael Keaton’s performance as the eccentric ghost “Betelgeuse” steals the show, making this film an enduring Halloween favorite.
6. Scream (1996)
Wes Craven’s Scream revitalized the slasher genre in the ’90s with its clever mix of horror and satire. The Ghostface killer became an instant pop culture icon, and the film’s self-aware humor and suspenseful twists make it one of the best Halloween movies for a modern audience.
7. Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho is a psychological thriller that laid the groundwork for many horror films that followed. The story of Norman Bates and his eerie motel is a haunting tale that remains just as effective today as it was over 60 years ago.
8. It (2017)
Based on Stephen King’s novel, It brought the terrifying Pennywise the Clown back to life for a new generation. With its strong performances and creepy atmosphere, this film is both terrifying and nostalgic, making it a perfect choice for Halloween.
9. The Addams Family (1991)
This gothic comedy about the creepy and kooky Addams Family is perfect for Halloween. With its dark humor and memorable characters, the film offers laughs and chills in equal measure, appealing to both kids and adults.
10. Coraline (2009)
This animated dark fantasy from Laika Studios tells the story of Coraline, a young girl who discovers a parallel world with sinister secrets. Coraline is visually stunning and deeply unsettling, making it an excellent choice for fans of eerie storytelling.
11. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy Krueger, the dream-stalking killer, became one of the most iconic villains in horror history with A Nightmare on Elm Street. Wes Craven’s inventive premise and gruesome visuals make this a must-watch for any Halloween horror fan.
12. Casper (1995)
For a lighter take on the supernatural, Casper offers a heartwarming story about a friendly ghost and his newfound human friend. This family-friendly film is full of charm and nostalgia, perfect for younger viewers.
13. The Shining (1980)
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Shining is a psychological horror masterpiece. Jack Nicholson’s descent into madness at the Overlook Hotel is as iconic as it is terrifying, making this film a top choice for Halloween.
14. Paranormal Activity (2007)
This found-footage horror film became a cultural phenomenon due to its low-budget ingenuity and ability to build dread with minimal special effects. The tension and scares in Paranormal Activity make it one of the most effective modern horror movies.
15. Practical Magic (1998)
This romantic drama about two witch sisters, played by Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, has become a cult favorite over the years. With its blend of magic, love, and family, Practical Magic is a great option for a more whimsical Halloween viewing.
16. Hereditary (2018)
Ari Aster’s Hereditary is a deeply unsettling film that explores grief and family secrets. Its slow-building tension and shocking twists make it one of the most haunting films of recent years, perfect for a Halloween scare.
17. Ghostbusters (1984)
Who ya gonna call? Ghostbusters is a comedic classic that blends supernatural elements with hilarious performances. This lighthearted yet spooky film is a great addition to any Halloween movie marathon.
18. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
This found-footage film revolutionized the horror genre with its minimalist approach and focus on psychological terror. The Blair Witch Project is a chilling tale of three filmmakers lost in the woods, haunted by an unseen force.
19. Frankenstein (1931)
This Universal Monsters classic brought Mary Shelley’s legendary creature to life in stunning black-and-white. Boris Karloff’s portrayal of the misunderstood monster remains one of cinema’s most iconic performances.
20. Halloweentown (1998)
This Disney Channel Original Movie is a nostalgic favorite for many who grew up in the ’90s. The story of a young girl discovering her magical heritage is whimsical, fun, and perfect for younger audiences.
Why These Movies Are Perfect for Halloween
What makes these films the best Halloween movies isn’t just their scares or themes—it’s their ability to transport viewers into a world of mystery, magic, and thrills. Movies like Halloween and The Shining are perfect for those who want to be frightened, while films like Hocus Pocus and The Addams Family offer a more lighthearted take on the holiday.
Honorable Mentions for Best Halloween Movies
While this list covers many classics, there are countless other films worthy of a Halloween viewing. Honorable mentions include:
- Hocus Pocus (1993)
- Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
- Carrie (1976)
- Monster House (2006)
- Child’s Play (1988)
- The Craft (1996)